Okay, let’s talk about my latest obsession: Pumpkin French Toast. Not just any French toast, but the kind that explodes with warm spices and pumpkin goodness in every single bite. Seriously, this recipe changed my fall mornings forever!
My Pumpkin French Toast journey started with a LOT of mushy, bland failures. Honestly, the first few attempts were a total disaster! I was determined to get that perfect balance of custardy inside and crispy outside with a HUGE punch of pumpkin flavor.
The breakthrough came when I started using brioche bread AND adding a secret weapon to my custard (more on that later!). The first bite of that batch? Pure magic. It was so good; I did a little dance right there in my kitchen.
This Pumpkin French Toast is everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, unapologetic deliciousness, and turning the ordinary into something extraordinary. Get ready, flavor adventurers, because this recipe is about to rock your world!
This recipe isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Get ready to make some seriously unforgettable breakfasts. If your kids love this, they’ll go crazy for avocado toast with poached egg and dukkah!
Ingredients You Need
This Pumpkin French Toast ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! We’re not messing around with complicated stuff here. Let’s get to the good stuff.
- Brioche Bread: 6 thick slices. Game changer right here! It soaks up the custard like a dream and gets perfectly crispy.
- Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup. Not pumpkin pie filling, gotta be pure pumpkin.
- Eggs: 3 large.
- Milk: ½ cup. Whole milk is best for richness, but you can use whatever you have.
- Heavy Cream: ¼ cup. Here’s the Pumpkin French Toast game-changer that will blow your mind! It makes the custard super decadent.
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons. Adds a little molasses-y sweetness.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: 2 teaspoons. Because duh!
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon.
- Salt: ¼ teaspoon. Just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
- Butter: For greasing the pan. Don’t skimp!
- Maple Syrup: For serving. Obviously.
You’ll find the best pumpkin puree at your local grocery store, just make sure to check the label! And treat yourself to some good quality vanilla – you’ll taste the difference. This Pumpkin French Toast deserves only the best!
Add a splash of bourbon to your custard! Seriously, it takes it to another level.
You can whisk the custard ingredients together the night before. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Then your Pumpkin French Toast will be even easier to throw together in the morning. If you’re looking for sanity-saving dinner ideas, check out this French Onion Pasta Recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, flavor adventurers, let’s make some Pumpkin French Toast magic! Don’t stress – your breakfast is going to be incredible. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Whisk the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. This is the foundation of your flavor bomb!
Prep Your Bread
Lightly grease a large skillet or griddle with butter. Make sure it’s heated over medium heat. Here’s where most people mess up their Pumpkin French Toast – but not you! The pan needs to be hot enough to get that golden-brown crust.
Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of brioche bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are completely saturated. Let the bread soak for about 30 seconds per side. You want it to soak up all that pumpkin goodness!
Cook the French Toast
Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Your Pumpkin French Toast should look golden brown and smell absolutely divine.
Serve It Up!
Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook the slices in batches to make sure they get evenly browned.
In my kitchen, this Pumpkin French Toast takes exactly 12 minutes to cook – 6 minutes per side. But cooking times will vary depending on your stove.
While your Pumpkin French Toast is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Get ready for a flavor explosion that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Presentation Perfection
Presentation is KEY, my friends! You’ve put in the work, so let’s make this Pumpkin French Toast look as incredible as it tastes. If you prefer a vegan option, try this Pumpkin Vegan French Toast Casserole.
For maximum impact, stack two slices of Pumpkin French Toast on a plate. Drizzle generously with maple syrup. Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
This Pumpkin French Toast pairs perfectly with crispy bacon or sausage. The salty, savory flavors complement the sweetness of the French toast beautifully.
This Pumpkin French Toast is a showstopper at brunch parties. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this at fall gatherings!
Use a squeeze bottle to create a fancy maple syrup design on the plate. Add a few fresh berries for a pop of color.
I’ve seen people practically lick their plates clean when I serve this Pumpkin French Toast. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
If you have any leftover Pumpkin French Toast (which is unlikely!), cut it into cubes and add it to bread pudding. Or make French toast sticks for a fun snack.
Try adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the custard for a nutty twist. Or top with a homemade cranberry sauce for a festive holiday treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common Pumpkin French Toast challenges and my tried-and-true solutions.
Can I make this Pumpkin French Toast spicier?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the custard for a little kick. You can also use a spicier pumpkin pie spice blend.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or even more milk. The French toast won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be delicious!
How do I know when my Pumpkin French Toast is perfectly done?
The French toast should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside. If you’re not sure, cut into a slice to check.
Can I use regular bread instead of brioche?
Brioche is the best choice because it’s rich and soaks up the custard beautifully. But if you don’t have it, you can use challah or even thick-cut white bread.
Can I make this Pumpkin French Toast ahead of time?
The best way to prep this is to make the custard mixture the day before. Then, just soak and cook the French toast in the morning.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
You can make your own! Combine cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. There are tons of recipes online – just find one you like.
Can I make this Pumpkin French Toast vegan?
Yes! Use your favorite plant-based milk and eggs. You can also find vegan brioche bread at some specialty stores. For a Vegan Pumpkin French Toast recipe check out Pumpkin Vegan French Toast Casserole.
How do I prevent my Pumpkin spice french toast from being soggy?
Don’t overcrowd the pan, make sure your pan is hot enough, and don’t soak the bread for too long.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin French Toast recipe isn’t just a breakfast dish – it’s a celebration of flavor, a testament to the power of simple ingredients, and everything Cuba Queen stands for. It’s about taking something ordinary and turning it into a flavor adventure!
My Pumpkin French Toast Power Tips:
- Use brioche bread: This is non-negotiable!
- Don’t skimp on the heavy cream: It makes the custard so rich and decadent.
- Get your pan hot: For that perfectly golden-brown crust.
And don’t forget, there are endless ways to put your own spin on this! Here are some variations I’ve created and loved:
- Pumpkin Bread French Toast: Use slices of pumpkin bread instead of brioche! For another variation of Pumpkin Bread French Toast try this recipe, Pumpkin French Toast – Post Punk Kitchen – Isa Chandra Moskowitz
- Baked Pumpkin French Toast Casserole: This is perfect for feeding a crowd. Just layer the soaked bread in a baking dish and bake until golden brown. A Baked Pumpkin French Toast is always a winner.
- Spiced Pecan Pumpkin French Toast: Add chopped pecans and a pinch of extra cinnamon to the custard for a nutty, warm twist. If you want to try a different casserole, consider this Pumpkin French Toast Casserole (vegan, oil-free, refined sugar free …
Of all the variations, the Baked Pumpkin French Toast gets the biggest reactions. People just love that it’s so easy to serve!
Flavor adventurers, I know you can make this Pumpkin French Toast your signature dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment, get creative, and add your own personal touch. I have total confidence in your cooking skills! This reminds me of another flavor explosion, be sure to check out this french-onion-pasta-recipe.
Go forth and create some Pumpkin French Toast memories. And don’t forget to share your creations with me – I can’t wait to see what you come up with! While you are at it, consider this delicious avocado toast with poached egg and dukkah.
Pumpkin French Toast
Warm up your mornings with this delicious Pumpkin French Toast! Infused with pumpkin spice and cooked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect fall breakfast treat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 slices brioche bread
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, for cooking
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt.
- Dip each slice of bread into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring both sides are coated.
- Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve immediately with maple syrup and whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts before serving.